Princeton University Preparatory Program
PUPP Overview
Founded in 2001 by the Princeton University Program in Teacher Preparation, the Princeton University Preparatory Program (PUPP) is a rigorous, academic and cultural enrichment program that supports high-achieving, low-income high school students from local districts. Our multi-year, tuition-free program prepares participants for admission to and ongoing success within selective colleges and universities.
Students are selected to become PUPP Scholars during the spring of their freshmen year of high school. Acceptance into PUPP is contingent upon a student’s academic record, state exam scores, a writing sample, house-hold income, and their performance in a small group interview, leadership potential, and commitment to pursuing higher education. Once selected, PUPP Scholars participate throughout the remainder of their high school career. Scholars complete three, intensive six-and-a-half week summer institutes at Princeton University and take part in school-year programming, including weekly after school academic enrichment sessions and a series of cultural excursions. PUPP works directly with students and their parents during their senior year of high school to provide guidance and support during the college admissions and financial aid process. PUPP alumni receive support with their transition to college and guidance throughout their collegiate career.
"PUPP is one of Princeton's most inspired--and successful--educational initiatives. It gives talented students of modest means the knowledge and confidence they need to fulfill their aspirations, it broadens the pool of applicants available to our nation's finest colleges and universities, and, in time, it will strengthen the fabric of American society." - Shirley Tilghman
The Princeton University Preparatory Program has truly taught me that 'Without a struggle there can be no progress' (Frederick Douglass). Throughout my life I have adapted to certain things that are truly unequal, unfair, and unjust. It seems as though there has always been a mountain in the way of my goal or dream. In a time when no one else would believe in me, PUPP gave me an opportunity to prove myself academically." - Jesus Lopez, Trenton Central High School '04; Syracuse University '08, Coronat Scholar.
PUPP is administered by Princeton University's Program in Teacher Preparation.
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